O’Brien’s proven leadership will accelerate Highwire’s growth as an integrated agency and
guide clients through an era of unprecedented complexity
SAN FRANCISCO, May 13, 2025 – Highwire, a strategic marketing communications agency partnering with brands at the intersection of innovation and industry, today announced the appointment of Michael O’Brien as its new chief executive officer, to further accelerate the agency’s growth and lead Highwire’s journey into a new era of integrated services and impactful client programs.
O’Brien brings over 30 years of experience driving growth and excellence for some of the
world’s most iconic brands. He served as chief client officer for over 10 years of his 23-year
career at Ketchum. There, he transformed client service by focusing on growth, reducing
revenue attrition, and creating a more purposeful approach to client management. O’Brien was
also responsible for global business development and strategic planning.
He will succeed Carol Carrubba, who is currently serving as interim CEO. Carrubba will
continue to serve as part of the executive leadership team, helping to shape and support the
agency’s vision and strategy.
“Highwire has always set the highest bar for client service and business impact. We are also
known for our strong culture and foundational commitment to our people. As we accelerate our
growth and scale, we wanted a leader with a proven track record of partnership with both clients
and teams,” said Carrubba. “Michael stood out in every way as a leader who shares our values
and brings the scale, relationships, and experience to realize our vision. I am confident that he
will propel us into a new era as a company while honoring our deep roots.”
O’Brien joins the agency on the heels of double-digit growth in 2024, reflecting the agency’s
ability to deliver integrated, insight-driven programs and campaigns that help brands navigate
an increasingly complex business landscape. He will reinforce the agency’s significant
investments in advanced AI-backed tools and data expertise, further strengthening its ability to
craft tailored, high-impact strategic communications and marketing programs for clients across
B2B technology, cybersecurity, healthcare, financial services, energy and sustainability, and
beyond.
“Highwire has an outstanding reputation as a strategic partner for some of the most influential
brands and has emerged as an indispensable partner to companies who view innovation as the
key driver of growth,” said O’Brien. “I’m honored to lead the organization into its next phase, and
excited to build on the entrepreneurial, inclusive, and bold spirit established by Highwire’s
founders.”
“Michael’s client-first philosophy and strategic insight align with Highwire’s ambitions, especially
as we take on larger, more complex client challenges,” said Mike Wilkins, Highwire board member and Shamrock Capital partner. “This evolution in company leadership is a natural step
forward as we scale. With brands today facing unprecedented pressures, Michael's reputation
as a trusted advisor and confidante ensures we stay ahead of their needs and deliver even
greater value.”
To learn more about Highwire, visit: https://www.highwirepr.com.
Highwire is a strategic marketing and communications agency that propels innovation-driven
companies through bold storytelling, deep industry expertise, and tenacious execution. With
roots in journalism and Silicon Valley, Highwire sets the standard for high-impact
communications and marketing, connecting reputation to revenue. Highwire’s fully integrated
programs leverage digital and social media channels, media relations, and editorial and creative
services to drive businesses forward. Highwire's client portfolio includes leaders in enterprise
and B2B technology, AI, cybersecurity, energy and financial services. In healthcare, clients span
MedTech, diagnostics, pharma, digital health and more. For more information, please visit
www.highwirepr.com or @highwirepr.
Natalie Pacini
natalie@highwirepr.com